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Primary function: Reduce the overall load carried by Reconnaissance Marines,
facilitate the carrying of that load, and provide for added safety.
Manufacturer:

Unit Replacement Cost: $3,775

Features: The RPIE consists of the Multi-Purpose Poncho System, the Load Bearing Equipment/Special Patrolling Insertion
Extraction (LBE/SPIE) System, the Team Freshwater Purifier, and the Boat Safety Kit. The equipment will have integrated,
multi-use parts that will work safely with existing/planned operational equipment. The RPIE will be used by individual
Marines and reconnaissance teams executing missions in a wide variety of environments. No special training or logistics
requirements are anticipated. The equipment is made up of off-the-shelf Non-Developmental Items (NDI) or modified
NDI equipment. The Multi-Purpose Poncho System consists of three separately packaged sets: a shelter set, a lightweight
liner/bag set, and a cold weather liner/bag set. These sets can be combined or used individually to form a shelter,
a garment, or any one of several immediate-use configurations. The LBE/SPIE System provides a modular load-bearing
system capable of carrying an individual reconnaissance Marine's combat essential equipment while enhancing the
capability to quickly and easily conduct rappelling insertions and SPIE operations. The Team Freshwater Purifier
is a hand-held device capable of making potable water for a team of Marines from any freshwater source. This capability
alleviates the need to carry excessive quantities of canteens during long-term patrols in areas with questionable
freshwater sources. The Boat Safety Kit is designed for use during all small boat operations where the potential
exists for the boat crew and occupants to be isolated and require survival measures to be taken until rescue or
recovery. Kit components will provide the necessary items to perform basic at-sea survival tasks, such as producing
potable water, making shelter, securing food, providing/retaining body heat, and signaling.

Inventory:

Background: The current equipment carried by the reconnaissance Marine is too heavy and bulky, hindering him in
all phases of mission execution. Much of the equipment available for reconnaissance operations is outdated and
ill-suited for the anticipated operational environment. These new equipment items will serve to reduce the overall
load carried by reconnaissance Marines, facilitate the carrying of that load, and provide for an added measure
of safety during ship-to-shore movement.